The United States government has initiated a policy requiring sponsors of immigrants to reimburse the public benefits these individuals have received. This enforcement is in line with laws holding sponsors accountable for the costs associated with taxpayer-funded programs.
"If you sponsor an immigrant who uses welfare or other taxpayer-funded benefits, you are responsible for covering those costs," stated Jim O’Neill, the Deputy Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), on his official account on X (formerly known as Twitter).
O’Neill further mentioned that beginning December 17, letters have been dispatched to immigrant sponsors, demanding reimbursement for funds spent on public assistance.
"Collection letters have already started to arrive," the official confirmed.
This policy impacts those who signed the sponsorship affidavit, a legal agreement where the sponsor commits to ensuring the immigrant does not become reliant on government aid.
Should the immigrant receive subsidies or publicly funded medical assistance, the sponsor is obligated to repay that amount to the federal or state government.
Experts suggest this policy might deter many, particularly within the Latin and Cuban communities, from sponsoring family or friends seeking legal immigration to the United States. Some immigrant advocates view this decision as an additional hurdle complicating the immigration process.
The Department of Health and Human Services has not disclosed the number of letters sent or the total amount they aim to recover. Nonetheless, this move signifies a shift towards stricter enforcement of immigration and economic sponsorship laws, which have existed for decades but have seldom been rigorously enforced.
Understanding the U.S. Sponsor Reimbursement Policy
What is the new policy regarding sponsors of immigrants in the U.S.?
The U.S. government is now requiring sponsors of immigrants to repay any public benefits that the immigrants use, in accordance with existing laws that hold sponsors financially responsible.
Who is affected by this reimbursement requirement?
Those who have signed the sponsorship affidavit, legally committing to support the immigrant without reliance on government aid, are affected by this policy.
How might this policy impact immigrant sponsorship?
This policy could discourage individuals, especially in the Latin and Cuban communities, from sponsoring immigrants due to the financial liability involved.